Google Cuts Pixel 6A Battery Capacity Over Overheating
▼ Summary
– Google is rolling out a mandatory software update for some Pixel 6A phones to address potential battery overheating risks.
– The update will reduce battery capacity and charging performance after 400 charge cycles to mitigate overheating.
– Google plans to contact affected Pixel 6A customers next month with details on how to resolve the issue.
– At least two users reported instances of Pixel 6A phones catching fire, including one case of spontaneous combustion.
– Android Authority found code in Android 16 QPR1 Beta 2 referencing the overheating issue and a non-live support page.
Google is implementing battery capacity restrictions on certain Pixel 6A devices to address overheating concerns, following similar measures taken with the Pixel 4A earlier this year. The company confirmed the upcoming software update will modify battery performance after 400 charge cycles to mitigate potential risks.
Alex Moriconi, a Google spokesperson, explained the update will introduce battery management features designed to lower capacity and charging efficiency once the device reaches the specified cycle count. Affected users will receive notifications next month with instructions on how to proceed.
Reports of overheating issues surfaced after at least two Pixel 6A owners claimed their devices caught fire unexpectedly. One Reddit user described their phone “spontaneously combusting overnight,” raising alarms about battery safety. Code discovered in the Android 16 QPR1 Beta 2 update also referenced a support page for the overheating problem, though the link remains inactive.
While Google hasn’t disclosed how many devices are impacted, the move reflects ongoing challenges with battery management in smartphones. The adjustment mirrors the company’s previous approach with the Pixel 4A, where similar software limits were applied to prevent overheating.
Owners of the Pixel 6A should watch for official communications from Google regarding the update. The company emphasizes that the changes prioritize user safety, though the reduced battery performance may affect long-term usability for some devices.
(Source: The Verge)
